SF Giants option catcher to Fresno, bring up outfielder

As expected at some point, the Giants optioned catcher Hector Sanchez to Triple-A Fresno and recalled outfielder Francisco Peguero.

Sanchez was a mainstay as Buster Posey’s backup on the 2012 World Series championship team, but he struggled from the get-go in spring training because of a shoulder injury incurred in winter ball. He neither hit nor caught well during April. Sanchez’s struggles (conditioning included) prompted the Giants to take the unusual step of carrying three catchers.

Journeyman Guillermo Quiroz has shown he can catch the Giants’ staff, which makes it easier for the Giants to demote Sanchez and let him play every day, which he sorely needs.

Peguero helped force the Giants’ hand by hitting .415 for Fresno. He fills a lot of needs for the Giants, starting with a right-handed left fielder to platoon with Gregor Blanco. That was supposed to be Andres Torres’ job, but he has not played well at the plate or in the field.

Peguero also adds right-handed depth and speed to the bench.

More moves are expected. In fact, the transaction page on milb.com shows the Giants optioned pitcher Sandy Rosario to Fresno on Thursday, presumably to clear a spot for Jeremy Affeldt. That leaves one more move to make when Jose Mijares comes off the bereavement list. The Giants might have no choice but to send a very effective Jean Machi back to Fresno, unless someone else can stand to use 15 days on the DL.